Kiyosumi Gardens 清澄庭園

The Kiyosumi Gardens in Fukagawa dates back to the Edo-era. It is believed to have been the residence of business tycoon Kinokuniya Bunzaemon. The residence passed to Kuze-yamatonokami, lord of Sekijuku, in the Kyōhō period (1716-1736).

In the Meiji Era, Iwasaki Yataro, founder of Mitsubishi acquired the land. In 1878, Yataro Iwasaki rebuilt the garden and imported 55 huge rocks from all over Japan. The gardens were used for entertaining guests and for company gatherings.

Nowadays, the place remains one of the most pleasant traditional Japanese garden in Tokyo. There are three big islands and a teahouse on the pond. You can enjoy hopping from one stone to another, what Japanese refer to as "isowtari".

As you amble around the shores and cross the bridges, colourful carps and curious turtles will come begging you for food.

Kiyosumi Park 清澄公園

Kiyosumi-koen Park is adjacent to the Gardens. A wooden lighthouse enhances the atmosphere of the pakr. It is a good place for a picnic or for viewing the kōyō (red and yellow leaves) in autumn. Admission is free.